Magnetoelastic based sensor assembly

ABSTRACT

The invention provides a sensor assembly for force sensing, the sensor assembly comprising: a first portion having a first and a second through hole, a second portion having a third and fourth through hole, and a first pin and a second pin coupling the first portion to the second portion. At least one out of the first and the second pin comprises a magnetoelastic based sensor for outputting a signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux emanating from a magnetically polarized region of the pin. The magnetoelastic based sensor comprises at least one direction sensitive magnetic field sensor in an at least partially hollow portion of the pin, which field sensor is configured for determination of a shear force in at least one direction. The invention further provides a tow coupling comprising the sensor assembly. The invention further provides a method for detecting a load.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a continuation application of, and which claims the benefit of the filing date and disclosure of, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/523,418, filed on Jul. 26, 2019, entitled “Magnetoelastic Based Sensor Assembly,” which is a continuation of and claims the benefit of the filing date of International Application PCT/EP2018/000105, filed Mar. 22, 2018, which is based on and claims the benefit of the filing date of European Patent Application No. 17162429.9, filed on Mar. 22, 2017, the contents of each of which are incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of Invention

The invention is related in general to systems and methods involving the use of magnetic field sensors for measuring a load. In particular, the invention relates to a magnetoelastic based sensor assembly, i.e. a sensor assembly comprising a magneto-elastically active region and a tow coupling incorporating this sensor assembly. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method of determining a direction of a load vector.

Description of Related Art

In many use cases strain gauges are used for sensing a load. However, strain gauges often require a structural weakening of the load conducting elements. Often, there is a need for load measurements without compromising on structural stability.

This is especially true for tow couplings. Furthermore, there is a strong demand for smart tow couplings, e.g. for systems providing a load weight gauge (measuring the tongue load of a tow coupling), a tow load weight shift alert, an unsafe trailer load distribution alert, a vehicle limit notification, an automated trailer brake control (closed loop), a low/flat trailer tire notification, and a check trailer brake notification, closed loop braking control, vehicle shift control, engine control, and stability control. The above discussed functions require the measurement of tow loads and/or tongue loads of the tow coupling.

Prior art load measurement devices for tow couplings have significant shortcomings, e.g. the complexity of the measurement and control devices, and the costs of the sensor assembly.

As an alternative to the widely used strain-gauges, non-contact type sensors exploiting the magnetoelastic effect were developed. These are frequently applied for torque measurements at rotating shafts in various mechanic systems. U.S. Pat. No. 9,347,845 discloses such a magnetoelastic sensor. U.S. Pat. No. 9,347,845 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the invention to provide an improved magnetoelastic based sensor assembly to effectively measure stress and strain in systems having a portion, which is subject to a mechanic load. The invention also provides a method of determining a direction of a load vector acting on a magnetoelastic based sensor assembly.

According to an aspect, a sensor assembly for force sensing can comprise a first portion having a first and a second through hole. The sensor assembly can further comprise a second portion having a third and a fourth through hole. The third and the fourth through hole can be positioned in correspondence to the first and the second through holes. The sensor assembly can further comprise a first pin and a second pin. The first pin can be arranged such that it extends through the first and the third through hole and the second pin can be arranged such that it extends through the second and the fourth through hole, so as to couple the first portion to the second portion. At least one out of the first and the second pin can comprise at least one magneto-elastically active region that may directly or indirectly be attached to or form a part of the pin in such a manner that mechanic stress on the pin is transmitted to the magneto-elastically active region. The magneto-elastically active region can comprise at least one magnetically polarized region such that a polarization of the magnetically polarized region may become increasingly helically shaped as the applied stress increases. The sensor assembly can further comprise a magnetic field sensor means which may be arranged approximate the at least one magneto-elastically active region. The magnetic field sensor means may be configured to output a signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux which may emanate from the magnetically polarized region. The magnetic field sensor means may comprise at least one direction sensitive magnetic field sensor which may be configured to determine a shear force in at least one direction. The at least one direction sensitive magnetic field sensor may in particular be arranged to have a predetermined and fixed spatial coordination with the pin, wherein this pin may at least be partially hollow.

The at least one direction sensitive magnetic field sensor may be arranged inside an interior of this pin. By means of the sensor assembly stress which is applied to a pin caused by a mechanic load can effectively be measured. The sensor assembly according to aspects of the invention overcomes the drawback of the prior art solutions. In particular, the sensor assembly does not tend to drift with respect to the measurement values and is less error-prone.

According to another aspect, at least one out of the first and the second pin of the sensor assembly can comprise at least one X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor, which can be configured to detect a force component Fx1 in a longitudinal direction X, and/or at least one Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor, which can be configured to detect a force component Fz1 in a vertical direction Z. The longitudinal direction X can be defined by a direction of longitudinal extension of the second portion. The vertical direction Z can be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X and substantially perpendicular to the transversal direction Y of longitudinal extension of the at least one pin.

According to another aspect, the first through hole and the third through hole of the sensor assembly can be configured such that they encompass the first pin in a positive-fitting manner. A positive-fitting manner of the fitting allows the pin to be substantially rigidly fixed to the first portion and the second portion by the first and the third through hole. This means that the pin has almost no play inside the first and third through hole and that the accuracy of the force measurement is advantageously increased compared to a configuration in which the first pin has play inside the first and the third through hole.

According to another aspect, the second pin of the sensor assembly may be encompassed by the second through hole in a positive-fitting manner and the fourth through hole may be configured such that the second pin may have one additional degree of freedom of movement within the fourth through hole. The additional degree of freedom of movement allows the second pin to be insensitive with respect to shear forces acting in the direction of the additional degree of freedom of movement. This means that the determination of the shear force along this direction can advantageously be simplified since the shear effect occurs exclusively on the first pin.

According to another aspect, the additional degree of freedom of movement may extend in the longitudinal direction X. Since the additional degree of freedom of movement corresponds to the longitudinal direction X, the determination of the shear force along this direction can advantageously be simplified.

According to another aspect, the first and/or the second pin of the sensor assembly can comprise a first magneto-elastically active region and a second magneto-elastically active region. The first and the second magneto-elastically active regions may be directly or indirectly attached to or form parts of the pin in such a manner that mechanic stress may be transmitted to the magneto-elastically active regions. Each magneto-elastically active region can comprise a magnetically polarized region. Particularly, the magnetic polarization of the first magneto-elastically active region and the magnetic polarization of the second magneto-elastically active region may be substantially opposite to each other. The magnetic field sensor means can comprise at least one first direction sensitive magnetic field sensor which may be arranged approximate the first magneto-elastically active region.

The magnetic field sensor means may be configured to output a first signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux which may emanate from the first magneto-elastically active region. The magnetic field sensor means may comprise at least one second direction sensitive magnetic field sensor which may be arranged approximate the second magneto-elastically active region. The magnetic field sensor means may be configured to output a second signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux which may emanate from the second magneto-elastically active region. This way, the shear force can advantageously be determined in two opposing directions thereby improving the quality of the determination of the shear force. This “vice versa” configuration of the magnetic field sensors enables the shear directions to be determined by the magneto-elastically active regions. For example, the directions may be distinguishable, if the measurement data, which is acquired from the first direction sensitive magnetic field sensor and the second direction sensitive magnetic field sensor, is differentially processed.

The differential evaluation of the signals advantageously doubles the signal, which is correlated with the applied stress. Because the polarization of the first and second magneto-elastically active region is opposite to each other, theoretically possible external fields may be compensated. The sensor assembly according to this embodiment may be more sensitive and less susceptible to errors.

According to another aspect, the first and/or the second pin of the sensor assembly can comprise at least one first X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor and/or at least one second X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor and/or at least one Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor and/or at least one second Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor. The at least one X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor may be configured to detect a force component Fx1 in the first magneto-elastically active region in the longitudinal direction X of the second portion. The at least one second X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor may be configured to detect a force component Fx2 in the second magneto-elastically active region in the longitudinal direction X of the second portion. The at least one Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor may be configured to detect a force component Fz1 in the first magneto-elastically active region in the vertical direction Z. The at least one second Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor may be configured to detect a force component Fz2 in the second magneto-elastically active region in the vertical direction Z. Advantageously, the shear force can be determined in different directions being perpendicularly aligned with respect to each other.

According to another aspect, the first pin of the sensor assembly can comprise the at least one Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor and the at least one second Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor. Advantageously, the first pin can be configured to exclusively react on a shear force acting along the Z-direction.

According to another aspect, the first pin of the sensor assembly can comprise the at least one first X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor, the at least one second X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor, the at least one first Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor and the at least one second Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor and the second pin of the sensor assembly can comprise the at least one Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor and the at least one second Z-direction magnetic field sensor. Advantageously, the first pin can be configured to exclusively react on the shear effect along the X-direction which simplifies the shear force evaluation, wherein the shear force along the vertical Z-direction is acting on both pins.

According to another aspect the first pin of the sensor assembly can comprise the at least one first X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor, the at least one second X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor, the at least one first Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor and the at least one second Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor and the second pin of the sensor assembly can comprise the at least one first X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor, the at least one second X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor, the at least one first Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor and the at least one second Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor. This way, both pins are sensitive to all shear forces along the vertical Z-direction as well as along the longitudinal X-direction. The first and the second pin advantageously can detect the different components of the shear force at different positions of the system.

The magnetic field sensor means may be configured for determination of a first component and a second component of the load, which is applied to the pin. In particular, the at least one first X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor and the at least one second X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor can form a first group of sensors and the at least one first Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor and the at least one second Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor can form a second group of sensors. The first group of sensors is suitable for determination of a load component, which is directed along the X-axis. The second group of sensors senses a component of the load, which is substantially perpendicular to the first component along the Z-direction. Consequently, the direction and the value of the stress or force, which is applied to the pins, may be determined from said components in this coordinate system.

According to another aspect, the second portion of the sensor assembly can comprise a center wall which may extend in the longitudinal direction X and the vertical direction Z. The third and the fourth through hole may also extend through the center wall. Advantageously, the center wall allows the first portion to be effectively affected by the shear force at an additional point of action.

According to another aspect, the first and/or the second pin of the sensor assembly may be fixedly attached in a predetermined manner to the first portion. The first and/or the second pin can advantageously be fixedly attached in all six degrees of freedom. This way, the determination of the shear forces is effectively possible since the pins do not have play inside the through holes of the first portion.

According to another aspect, the first portion of the sensor assembly can have a yoke-like shape. The yoke legs of the first portion can comprise the first and the second through holes. The second portion of the sensor assembly can have a tubular shape. The side walls of the second portion can comprise the third and fourth through holes. The direction sensitive magnetic field sensor(s) may be configured to detect force components of shear forces introduced into the pins by the first portion and the second portion. Advantageously, a yoke-like shape of the first portion and a tubular shape of the second portion allow the sensor assembly to be implemented in an elongated joint connection of two objects, whereas the pins are arranged in the through holes and connect both objects.

According to another aspect, the first portion of the sensor assembly can have a yoke-like shape. The yoke legs of the first portion can comprise the first and the second through holes. The center wall can comprise the third and fourth through holes. The direction sensitive magnetic field sensor(s) may be configured to detect force components of shear forces introduced into the pins by the first portion and the second portion. In particular, the side walls of the second portion can comprise through holes which may be larger than the third and the fourth through holes such that the shear forces may be introduced into the pins by abutment surfaces of the first and the second through holes in the yoke legs and abutment surfaces of the third and the fourth through holes in the center wall. The abutment surfaces allow the transmission of power between the first portion and the second portion to be configured in an advantageous manner.

According to another aspect, a tow coupling can comprise a sensor assembly wherein the first portion is a hitch assembly that may be configured to be attached to a car chassis and wherein the second portion may be a receiving tube which may be configured to receive a draw bar, alternatively a hitch bar or a ball mount of the tow coupling. Advantageously, the sensor assembly is configured to detect the forces of a tow coupling of an automobile, which may be part of a land based on-road or off-road vehicle.

According to another aspect, the first portion of the sensor assembly may be a supporting yoke having two yoke legs. The yoke legs may comprise recesses which are aligned in correspondence to each other and which represent the first and the second through holes of the first portion.

According to another aspect, the first portion of the sensor assembly may be a supporting yoke having two or four yoke legs. The yoke legs may comprise recesses which are aligned in correspondence to each other and which represent the first and the second through holes of the first portion.

According to another aspect, the sensor assembly dispenses with a mechanical linkage or connection between the magnetic field sensor means and the second portion. This eliminates sources of error, which result from mechanic failure of this connection. The sensor assembly reliably operates even under extreme operating conditions. The drift of the measurement values during long term measurement is reduced. The sensor assembly according to aspects of the invention is versatile in that it may be applied to or integrated in nearly every tubular shaped portion, which may be for example a part of a hydraulic unit of a land-, marine-, rail- or air transport vehicle.

According to another aspect the forces which are detectable by the sensor assembly are not exclusively restricted to shear forces which originate from shear stress but may also originate due to tensile or compressive stress acting on the magneto-elastically active region(s) of the first pin and/or the second pin of the sensor assembly. In other words, shear stress and normal stress may both induce a variation of the polarization of the magnetically polarized region emanating from the magneto-elastically active region(s). This polarization may be detectable by the magnetic field sensor means which may output a signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux towards the polarization direction sensitive magnetic field sensor that may be configured to determine the acting force. Consequently, the magneto-elastically active region may be sensitive to all stress types. The embodiment may particularly be suitable, if the pin is exposed to only one single type of stress.

According to another aspect, the direction sensitive magnetic field sensors may be one of a Hall-effect, magneto-resistance, magneto-transistor, magneto-diode, MAGFET field sensors or fluxgate magnetometer. These aspects advantageously apply to all embodiments of the invention.

According to another aspect, any hydraulic piston, crane application, car and other various applications incorporating bolts and pins, where shear forces may be applied, may be equipped with the sensor assembly according to aspects of the invention. Traditionally, shear force sensors using strain-gauges are designed in that they get intentionally weaken to provide enough deformation so as to allow a measurement of the applied loads. The magneto-elastically active region of the sensor assembly, however, provides the possibility to design the bolt without weaken locations and significantly higher overload capability. The load pin having the integrated magneto-elastically active region provides the possibility to detect shear forces in pins, screws, bolts etc.

According to another aspect, a method of determining a direction of a load vector is provided. Within said method, a sensor assembly according to aspects of the invention is provided. In other words, a sensor assembly is provided which can comprise a first portion having a first and a second through hole. The sensor assembly can further comprise a second portion having a third and a fourth through hole. The third and the fourth through hole can be positioned in correspondence to the first and the second through hole. The sensor assembly can further comprise a first pin and a second pin. The first pin can be arranged such that it extends through the first and the third through hole and the second pin can be arranged such that it extends through the second and the fourth through hole, so as to couple the first portion to the second portion. At least one out of the first and the second pin can comprise at least one magneto-elastically active region that may directly or indirectly be attached to or form a part of the pin in such a manner that mechanic stress on the pin is transmitted to the magneto-elastically active region. The magneto-elastically active region can comprise at least one magnetically polarized region such that a polarization of the magnetically polarized region may become increasingly helically shaped as the applied stress increases. The sensor assembly can further comprise a magnetic field sensor means which may be arranged approximate the at least one magneto-elastically active region. The magnetic field sensor means may be configured to output a signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux which may emanate from the magnetically polarized region. The magnetic field sensor means may comprise at least one direction sensitive magnetic field sensor which may be configured to determine a shear force in at least one direction. The at least one direction sensitive magnetic field sensor may in particular be arranged to have a predetermined and fixed spatial coordination with the pin, wherein this pin may at least be partially hollow. The at least one direction sensitive magnetic field sensor may be arranged inside an interior of this pin.

Furthermore, within the method according to another aspect, the first pin and the second pin may be exposed to a load. Measurement data of the at least one direction sensitive magnetic field sensor may be processed so as to determine a shear stress and/or a tensile or compressive stress that is applied by the second portion and the first portion to the first and/or second pin 8, 9.

In particular, a direction of a force F may be determined from the measurement data on the one hand and the predetermined and known spatial coordination between the direction sensitive magnetic field sensor(s), the first pin, the second pin and the point of load.

The force F is applied to the sensor assembly via the second portion 5.

Same or similar advantages which have been already mentioned with respect to the sensor assembly comprising a magneto-elastically active region according to aspects of the invention apply in a same or similar way to the method of determining a direction of the load vector and will be not repeated.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further aspects and characteristics of the invention ensue from the following description of the preferred embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein,

FIG. 1 is a simplified perspective view of a tow coupling comprising a sensor assembly for force sensing,

FIG. 2 is a simplified exploded view of the tow coupling,

FIG. 3 is a simplified exploded perspective view of a second portion,

FIG. 4 is a simplified cross-sectional view of a sensor assembly,

FIG. 5a is a simplified cross-sectional view of a pin,

FIG. 5b is another simplified cross-sectional view of the pin,

FIG. 6 is a simplified cross-sectional view of a sensor assembly for force sensing,

FIG. 7 is another simplified cross-sectional view of the sensor assembly,

FIG. 8 is a simplified cross-sectional view of a sensor assembly for force sensing,

FIG. 9 is a simplified side view of a sensor assembly detecting a first simplified load case,

FIG. 10 is a simplified top view of a sensor assembly detecting a second simplified load case,

FIG. 11 is a simplified top view of a sensor assembly detecting a third simplified load case,

FIG. 12 is a simplified cross-sectional view of a sensor assembly configured to detect a vertical load component Fz of a load F,

FIG. 13 is a simplified cross-sectional view of a sensor assembly configured to detect a vertical load component Fz, a transversal load component Fy, and a longitudinal load component Fx of a load F,

FIG. 14 is a simplified cross-sectional view of a sensor assembly configured to detect a vertical load component Fz, a transversal load component Fy, and a longitudinal load component Fx of a load F,

FIG. 15 is a simplified cross-sectional view of a sensor assembly configured to detect a vertical load component Fz, a transversal load component Fy, and a longitudinal load component Fx of a load F,

FIG. 16 is a simplified cross-sectional view of a sensor assembly configured to detect a vertical load component Fz, a transversal load component Fy, and a longitudinal load component Fx of a load F, and

FIG. 17 is a simplified perspective view of a tow coupling comprising a sensor assembly for force sensing.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 is a simplified perspective view of a tow coupling comprising a sensor assembly 1 for force sensing according to aspects of the invention; FIG. 2 is a simplified exploded view of the tow coupling.

The sensor assembly 1 for force sensing comprises a first portion 2 (supporting yoke) having a first through hole 3 and a second through hole 4, a second portion 5 (receiving tube) having a third through hole 6 and fourth through hole 7. The third and fourth through holes 6, 7 are positioned in correspondence to the first and second through holes 3, 4.

The second portion defines a Cartesian coordinate system having a longitudinal direction X, a transversal direction Y and a vertical direction Z. The longitudinal direction X extends in the direction of longitudinal extension of the second portion. The transversal direction Y extends in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X and in a horizontal plane. The vertical direction Z extends in a direction that perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X and the transversal direction Y.

The sensor assembly 1 further comprises a first pin 8 and a second pin 9. The first pin 8 is arranged such that it extends through the first and third through holes 3, 6. The second pin 9 is arranged such that it extends through the second and fourth through holes 4, 7. The first portion 2 is coupled to the second portion 5 via the first and second pins 8, 9.

At least one out of the first and the second pin 8, 9 comprises at least one magneto-elastically active region 10 (see FIG. 4) that is directly or indirectly attached to or forms a part of the pin 8, 9 in such a manner that mechanic stress of the pin 8, 9 is transmitted to the magneto-elastically active region.

The magneto-elastically active region 10 comprises at least one magnetically polarized region such that a polarization of the polarized region becomes increasingly helically shaped as the applied stress increases.

The at least one pin 8, 9 further comprises a magnetic field sensor means arranged approximate the at least one magneto-elastically active region 10 for outputting a signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux emanating from the magnetically polarized region.

The magnetic field sensor means comprises at least one direction sensitive magnetic field sensor L. The at least one direction sensitive magnetic field sensor is configured for determination of a shear force in at least one direction.

The at least one direction sensitive magnetic field sensor L is in particular arranged to have a predetermined and fixed spatial coordination with the respective pin 8, 9.

The pin 8, 9 comprises the at least one direction sensitive magnetic field sensor L is at least partially hollow. The at least one direction sensitive magnetic field sensor L is arranged inside the interior of the pin 8, 9.

The first through hole 3 and the third through hole 6 are configured such that they encompass the first pin 8 in a positive-fitting manner. In other words, the first pin 8 extends through the first and third through holes 3, 6, and the first pin 8 is supported in at least two rotational degrees of freedom and at least two translational degrees of freedom by abutting surfaces of the through holes.

The second pin 9 is encompassed by the second through hole 4 in a positive-fitted manner. In other words, the second pin 9 extends through the second through hole 4, and the second pin 9 is supported in at least two rotational degrees of freedom and at least two translational degrees of freedom by abutting surfaces of the second through hole 4.

The fourth through hole 7 is configured such that the second pin 9 has one additional degree of freedom of movement (compared to the first pin 8 in the third through hole 6) within the fourth through hole 7. Differently stated, the second pin 9 extends through fourth through hole 7, and the second pin 9 is supported in at least two rotational degrees of freedom and at least one translational degree of freedom by abutting surfaces of the through holes. The number of translational degrees of freedom of the second pin 9 in the fourth through hole 7 is one more than the number of translational degrees of freedom of the first pin 8 the third through hole 6.

The additional degree of freedom is a translational degree of freedom that extends in the longitudinal direction X.

The first portion 2 has a yoke-like shape, wherein yoke legs 11 of the first portion comprise the first through hole 3 and second through hole 4.

The second portion 5 has a tubular shape, wherein side walls and/or a center wall of the second portion 5 comprise the third through hole 6 and the fourth through hole 7.

The direction sensitive magnetic field sensor is (or the direction sensitive magnetic field sensors are) configured to detect force components of shear forces introduced into the pins 8, 9 by the first portion 2 and the second portion 5.

The first and/or second pin 8, 9 is fixedly attached (in all six degrees of freedom in a predetermined manner to the first portion 2. Bolts 12 screw the pins 8, 9 (via attachment flanges of the pins) to yoke legs 11 of the first portion 2.

The second portion 5 comprises a center wall 13 extending in the longitudinal direction X and the vertical direction Z, the third through hole 6 and fourth through hole 7 extend through the center wall 13.

The first portion 2 has a yoke-like shape, wherein the yoke legs 11 of the first portion 2 comprise the first and second through holes 3, 4, and wherein the center wall comprises the third and fourth through holes 6, 7.

Direction sensitive magnetic field sensor(s) L is/are configured to detect force components of shear forces introduced into the pins 8, 9 by the first portion 2 and the second portion 5.

Side walls 14 of the second portion 5 comprise through holes in side walls that are larger than the third and fourth through holes 6, 7, such that the shear forces are introduced into the pins 8, 9 by abutment surfaces of the first and second through holes 3, 4 in the yoke legs 11 and abutment surfaces of the third and fourth through holes 6, 7 in the center wall 13.

The tow coupling 100 comprises the sensor assembly 1. The first portion 2 is a hitch assembly that is attached to the chassis 101 of a car.

The second portion 5 is a receiving tube that is configured to receive a draw bar 102 (hitch bar, ball mount) of the tow coupling 100. The draw bar 102 can be partially inserted into the second portion 5. A pin 103 secures the draw bar 102 to the second portion 5.

FIG. 3 is a simplified exploded view of a second portion. The second portion 5 is of tubular (extruded) shape comprising a vertical center wall extending along the longitudinal direction X.

The center wall 13 comprises the third through hole 6 and the fourth through hole 7.

The center wall 13 can be welded into a corresponding slit in the second portion 5. The center wall 14 thereby forms a part of the second portion 5.

The second portion 5 further comprises a draw bar barrier 99. The draw bar barrier can be formed by an abutment surface of the center wall 13. Alternatively, the draw bar barrier can be formed by an abutment edge or a bolt/pin extending (in a substantially radial direction) into the inside of the tubular second portion. The draw bar barrier 99 hinders a draw bar from contacting the first and second pins 8, 9.

FIG. 4 is a simplified cross-sectional view of a sensor assembly. The first and second pins 8, 9 extend through the first through hole 3 and the second through hole 4 in the first portion 2 and through the third through hole 6 and the fourth through hole 7 in the second portion 5.

The first and/or second pin 8, 9 is an at least partially hollow pin. The hollow pin can be sealed by a front cover 15 and a rear cover 16. The rear cover 16 can provide a cable bushing to provide access for supply and/or signal lines 17.

The pins 8, 9 comprise a plurality of direction sensitive field sensors L. A printed circuit board 18 supports the direction sensitive field sensors L.

The pins 8, 9 can comprise one or more collars 19 of comparatively low magnetic permeability (compared to the hollow shaft of the pins 8, 9) arranged such that the positions of the one or more collars 19 substantially correspond to one or more of the positions of the through holes 3, 4, 6, 7 in the first and/or second portion.

Alternatively, one or more of the through holes 3, 4, 6, 7 can comprise a collar/bushing 19 of comparatively low magnetic permeability (compared to the hollow shaft of the pins 8, 9).

The first portion 2 and the second portion 5 can be configured to provide a gap between the first portion 2 and the second portion 5. The gap can comprise a material of low magnetic permeability (compared to the hollow shaft of the pins 8, 9).

FIGS. 5a, 5b are simplified cross-sectional simplified views of a first and/or second pin 8, 9. The first and/or second pin 8, 9 comprises a first magneto-elastically active region 21 and a second magneto-elastically active region 22.

The first magneto-elastically active region 21 is directly or indirectly attached to or form parts of the pin 8, 9, in such a manner that mechanic (shear) stress applied to the pin 8, 9 is at least partially transmitted to the first magneto-elastically active region 21.

The second magneto-elastically active region 22 is directly or indirectly attached to or form parts of the pin 8, 9, in such a manner that mechanic (shear) stress applied to the pin 8, 9 is at least partially transmitted to the second magneto-elastically active region 22.

Each magneto-elastically active region comprises a magnetically polarized region. The magnetic polarization of the first magneto-elastically active region 21 and the magnetic polarization of the second magneto-elastically active region 22 can be substantially opposite to each other.

The magnetic field sensor means comprises at least one first direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx1, Lz1 being arranged approximate the first magneto-elastically active region 21 for outputting a first signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux emanating from the first magnetically polarized region 21.

The magnetic sensor means comprises at least one second direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx2, Lz2 being arranged approximate the second magneto-elastically active region 22 for outputting a second signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux emanating from the second magnetically polarized region 22.

The at least one out of the first and the second pin 8, 9 comprises at least one X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx configured to detect a force component Fx1 in a longitudinal direction X that is defined by a direction of longitudinal extension of the second portion 5.

The at least one out of the first and the second pin 8, 9 comprises at least one Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz configured to detect a force component Fz1 in a vertical direction Z, that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X and perpendicular to the transversal direction Y of longitudinal extension of the at least one out of the first and second pin 8, 9.

Advantageously, the first and/or the second pin 8, 9 comprises a first magneto-elastically active region 21 and a second magneto-elastically active region 22, which are directly or indirectly attached to or form parts of the respective pin 8, 9 in such a manner that mechanic stress that is applied to the pin 8, 9 is transmitted to the magneto-elastically active regions.

Each magneto-elastically active region 21, 22 comprises a magnetically polarized region. The magnetic polarization of the first magneto-elastically active region 21 and the magnetic polarization of the second magneto-elastically active region 22 can be substantially opposite to each other.

The magnetic field sensor means comprises at least one first direction sensitive magnetic field sensor L1 being arranged approximate the first magneto-elastically active region for outputting a first signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux emanating from the first magnetically polarized region 21.

The magnetic sensor means comprises at least one second direction sensitive magnetic field sensor L2 being arranged approximate the second magneto-elastically active region 22 for outputting a second signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux emanating from the second magnetically polarized region 22.

The first and/or the second pin 8, 9 comprises at least one respective first X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx11, Lx12 configured to detect a force component Fx1 in the first magneto-elastically active region 21 in the longitudinal direction X.

The first and/or the second pin 8, 9 comprises at least one respective second X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx21, Lx22 configured to detect a force component Fx2 in the second magneto-elastically active region 22 in the longitudinal direction X.

The first and/or the second pin 8, 9 comprises at least one respective first Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz11, Lz12 configured to detect a force component Fz1 in the first magneto-elastically active region 21 in the vertical direction Z.

The first and/or the second pin 8, 9 comprises at least one second Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz21, Lz22 configured to detect a force component Fz2 in the second magneto-elastically active region in the vertical direction Z.

The sensor means comprises at least four magnetic field sensors L having a first to fourth sensing direction, wherein the sensing directions S and a shaft axis A (compare FIGS. 6 and 7) are at least substantially parallel to each other. The first to fourth magnetic field sensors are arranged along the circumference of the pin having substantially equal distances in circumferential direction between each other.

The at least one magneto-elastically active region projects along a circumference of the respective pin, and wherein said region is magnetized in that the domain magnetizations in the magnetically polarized region are in a circumferential direction of the member.

FIG. 6 is a simplified cross section of a sensor assembly 1 according to an embodiment of the invention. The sensor assembly 1 comprises a first portion 2, which is coupled to a second portion 5 via the pin 8, 9. The first portion 2 is subject to a first shear force FS1 pointing to the left. The second portion 5 is exposed to a second and opposite shear force FS2, pointing to the right. The pin 8, 9 comprises a magneto-elastically active region 21, which is arranged at the transition between the first and the second portion 2, 5. Consequently, the active region 21 is subject to shear forces causing the magnetic flux emanating from the magnetically polarized region of said active region 21 to become increasingly helically shaped, when the shear forces FS1, FS2 increase. The sensor means of the pin 8, 9 comprises four direction sensitive magnetic field sensors Lx1, Lx2, Lz1, Lz2 being arranged along the inner circumference of the pin 8, 9.

The configuration of the direction sensitive magnetic field sensors Lx1, Lx2, Lz1, Lz2 is explained in more detail by making reference to the simplified cross section of the sensor assembly 1, which is shown in FIG. 7. The cross-sectional plane is arranged to be substantially perpendicular to the shaft axis A. The first direction sensitive sensor Lx1 and the third direction sensitive sensor Lx2 form a first group of magnetic field sensors. The second group of sensors consists of the second direction sensitive sensor Lz1 and the fourth direction sensitive sensor Lz2. The sensing direction Sx1 of the first sensor Lx1 is 180° opposite to the third sensing direction Sx2 of the third sensor Lx2. This is indicated in the figure using the conventional signs. The first sensing direction Sx1 points out of the paper plane, the third sensing direction Sx2 points into the paper plane. Similar to the first group of sensors Lx1, Lx2, the second sensing direction Sz1 and the fourth sensing direction Sz2 are 180° opposite to each other. The second and fourth sensor Lz1, Lz2 are arranged accordingly. As it is indicated using the commonly known direction signs, the second sensing direction Sz1 points out of the paper plane while the fourth sensing direction Sz2 is directed into the paper plane.

The second sensor Lz1 (having the second sensing direction Sz1) and the fourth sensor Lz2 (having the fourth sensing direction Sz2) are shown in the simplified cross section of FIG. 7. The first sensor Lx1 and the first sensing direction Sx1 are added to the simplified cross section of FIG. 7 solely for clarification of the configuration of the sensors. Naturally, the first sensor Lx1 is not arranged in a common plane with the second and fourth sensor Sz1, Sz2, as it is shown in the cross section of FIG. 7.

When the pin 8, 9 is exposed to the first and second shear stress forces FS1, FS2, the signals of the first group of sensors (comprising the first and the third sensor Lx1, Lx2) is analyzed so as to determine a first component of a force F inducing the respective shear stress forces FS1, FS2. In a Cartesian coordinate system, this first component may be identified with the X-component Fx of the applied force F. The evaluation of the measurement values of the sensors of the second group (i. e. the second sensor Lz1 and the fourth sensor Lz2) results in a value for a second component of the force F. Within the same Cartesian coordinate system, this second force is identified with the Z-component of the force F, i. e. the force component Fz.

FIG. 8 is a cross section of a magneto-elastic sensor assembly 2 according to another embodiment of the invention. The first portion 2 surrounds the second portion 5, which is exposed to a force F. The pin 8, 9 intersects the first and the second portions 2, 5 along the shaft axis A. The pin 8, 9 comprises a first magneto-elastically active region 261 and a second magneto-elastically active region 262. Similar to the other embodiments of the invention, these are directly or indirectly attached to or form a part of the pin 8, 9 in such a manner that the mechanic stress is transmitted to the active regions 261, 262. The active regions 261, 262 are magnetically polarized in opposite direction. This is illustrated by the first polarization P61 of the first active region 261 and the second polarization P62 of the second active region 262. The magnetic polarizations P61, P62 are substantially 180° opposite to each other. Furthermore, they are substantially perpendicular to the shaft axis A.

A first pair of magnetic field sensors comprising a first sensor L1 and a second sensor L2 is arranged inside the pin 8, 9 in that this pair of sensors cooperates with the first active region 261. Similar, a second pair of magnetic field sensors comprising a first and a second sensor L1* and L2* is arranged inside the pin 8, 9 so as to interact with the second active region 262. The sensors L1, L2 of the first pair and the sensors L1*, L2* of the second pair are arranged approximate the first and the second magneto-elastically active region 261, 262, respectively. The first sensor pair L1, L2 outputs a first signal S, which is illustrated as a voltage V varying with the applied force F in the lower left of FIG. 8. The signal S corresponds to a stress-induced magnetic flux emanating from the first magnetically polarized region 261.

Similarly, the second pair of magnetic sensors L1*, L2* outputs a second signal S* corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux emanating from the second magnetically polarized region 262. This signal S* is also a voltage V* varying with the applied F (see lower right of FIG. 8). However, the slope of the second signal S* is opposite to that of the first signal S. A control unit (FIGS. 4 and 8) of the magneto-elastic sensor assembly is configured for determination of the force F inducing a stress in the pin(s) 8, 9. The control unit performs a differential evaluation of the signals S and S* of the first pair of sensors L1, L2 and the second pair of sensors L1*, L2*. This differential evaluation advantageously doubles the sensitivity of the signal, which is correlated with the applied stress. Because the polarization P61 and P62 of the first and second magnetically active region 261, 262 is opposite to each other, theoretically possible external fields are compensated. The magneto-elastic sensor assembly according to this embodiment is more sensitive and less susceptible to errors.

Advantageously, all embodiments of the invention may be equipped with the sensor configuration of FIG. 8 having separate, oppositely polarized active regions 261, 262 and two corresponding sets i.e. pairs of sensors L1, L2 and L1*, L2*.

Furthermore, the embodiment of FIG. 8 may be equipped with the sensor configuration, which is known from the load pin in FIG. 6 or 7. In other words, the sensor pairs L1, L2 and L1*, L2* may be replaced by a sensor configuration having four sensor pairs Lx11/Lx12, Lx21/Lx22, Lz11/Lz12, Lz21/Lz22, which is exemplarily shown in FIG. 5. According to this particular embodiment of the invention, additional force vectors may be determined.

FIG. 9 is a simplified side view of a sensor assembly 1 detecting a simplified first load case. The force F has a vertical force component Fz in the vertical direction Z. The force F is applied to the sensor assembly via the second portion 5, and more precisely via the ball coupling 104 of the draw bar 102.

For determining the force component Fz the following set of equations have to be solved.

Fz*d1=Fz1*d2  (1)

Fz*d3=Fz2*d2  (2)

Fz=Fz1+Fz2  (3)

d1=Fz1*d2/(Fz1+Fz2)  (4)

d3=Fz2*d2/(Fz1+Fz2)  (5)

F1 is a reaction force on the first pin 8, F2 is a reaction force on the second pin 9. D2 is the distance between (the axes of) the first and the second pin 8, 9. D1 is the distance between the point of load (the ball coupling) and (the axis of) the second pin. D3 is the distance between the point of load and (the axis of) the first pin.

FIG. 10 is a simplified top view of a sensor assembly detecting a simplified second load case. The force has a transversal force component Fy in the transversal direction Y applied to the sensor assembly 1 via the second portion 5, and more precisely via the ball coupling 104 of the draw bar 102.

The fourth through hole 7 provides a degree of freedom in the longitudinal direction X.

The transversal force component Fy creates a first reactive force Fx2 acting in the longitudinal direction X on the first magneto-elastically active region 21 of the first pin 8, and a second reactive force Fx1 acting in the longitudinal direction X on the second magneto-elastically active region 22 of the first pin 8.

For determining the force component Fy the following set of equations have to be solved.

Fy*d3=Fx1*d2  (6)

Fy*d3=Fx2*d2  (7)

Fx1=−Fx2  (8)

FIG. 11 is a simplified top view of a sensor assembly detecting a simplified third load case. The force has a longitudinal force component Fx in the longitudinal direction X applied to the to the sensor assembly 1 via the second portion 5, and more precisely via the ball coupling 104 of the draw bar 102.

The fourth through hole 7 provides a degree of freedom in the longitudinal direction X.

The longitudinal force component Fx creates a first reactive force Fx2 acting in the longitudinal direction X on the first magneto-elastically active region 21 of the first pin 8, and a second reactive force Fx1 acting in the longitudinal direction X on the second magneto-elastically active region 22 of the first pin 8.

For determining the force component Fx the following equation has to be solved.

Fx=Fx1+Fx2  (9)

FIG. 12 is a simplified cross-sectional view of a sensor assembly configured to detect a vertical load component Fz of a load F.

The first pin 8 comprises a first magneto-elastically active region 21 and a second magneto-elastically active region 22, which are directly or indirectly attached to or form parts of the first pin 8 in such a manner that mechanic stress that is applied to the first pin 8 is transmitted to the magneto-elastically active regions 21, 22.

Each magneto-elastically active region 21, 22 comprises a magnetically polarized region.

The magnetic polarization of the first magneto-elastically active region 21 and the magnetic polarization of the second magneto-elastically active region 22 can be substantially opposite to each other.

The magnetic field sensor means comprises at least one first direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz11 being arranged approximate the first magneto-elastically active region for outputting a first signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux emanating from the first magnetically polarized region 21.

The magnetic sensor means further comprises at least one second direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz21 being arranged approximate the second magneto-elastically active region 22 for outputting a second signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux emanating from the second magnetically polarized region 22.

The first pin 8 comprises a first and a third Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz11, Lz12 configured to detect a force component Fz1 in the first magneto-elastically active region 21 in the vertical direction Z.

The first pin 8 further comprises a second and a fourth Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz21, Lz22 configured to detect a force component Fz2 in the second magneto-elastically active region in the vertical direction Z.

The second pin 9 is a naked pin, i.e. the second pin comprises no magneto-elastically active region and no direction sensitive magnetic field sensors.

Differently stated, the first pin 8 comprises at least one first Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz11 and at least one second Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz21.

The first and second pins 8, 9 are rigidly fixed within the first and second through holes 3, 4 of the first portion 2.

The third and the fourth through holes 6, 7 can provide a minimal gap between the abutment surfaces of the second portion 5 and the first and second pins 8, 9.

FIG. 13 is a simplified cross-sectional view of a sensor assembly configured to detect a vertical load component Fz, a transversal load component Fy, and a longitudinal load component Fx of a load F.

The first pin 8 comprises a first magneto-elastically active region 21 and a second magneto-elastically active region 22, which are directly or indirectly attached to or form parts of the first pin 8 in such a manner that mechanic stress that is applied to the first pin 8 is transmitted to the magneto-elastically active regions 21, 22.

Each magneto-elastically active region 21, 22 comprises a magnetically polarized region.

The magnetic polarization of the first magneto-elastically active region 21 and the magnetic polarization of the second magneto-elastically active region 22 can be substantially opposite to each other.

The magnetic field sensor means comprises at least one first and third direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx11, Lz11 being arranged approximate the first magneto-elastically active region for outputting a first signal and a third signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux emanating from the first magnetically polarized region 21.

The magnetic sensor means further comprises at least one second and fourth direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx21, Lz21 being arranged approximate the second magneto-elastically active region 22 for outputting a second signal and a fourth signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux emanating from the second magnetically polarized region 22.

The first pin 8 comprises a first and a third Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz11, Lz12 configured to detect a vertical force component Fz11 in the first magneto-elastically active region 21 in the vertical direction Z.

The first pin 8 further comprises a second and a fourth Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz21, Lz22 configured to detect a vertical force component Fz12 in the second magneto-elastically active region in the vertical direction Z.

The first pin 8 comprises a first and a third X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx11, L12 configured to detect a longitudinal force component Fx2 in the first magneto-elastically active region 21 in the longitudinal direction X.

The first pin 8 further comprises a second and a fourth X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx21, Lx22 configured to detect a longitudinal force component Fx1 in the second magneto-elastically active region in the longitudinal direction X.

The second pin 9 comprises a first and a third Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz11, Lz12 configured to detect a vertical force component Fz21 in the first magneto-elastically active region 21 in the vertical direction Z.

The second pin 9 further comprises a second and a fourth Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz21, Lz22 configured to detect a vertical force component Fz22 in the second magneto-elastically active region in the vertical direction Z.

Differently stated, the first pin 8 comprises at least one first X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx11, at least one second X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx21, at least one first Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz11, and the at least one second Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz21. The second pin 9 comprises at least one first Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz11 and at least one second Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz21.

The first and second pins 8, 9 are rigidly fixed within the first and second through holes 3, 4 of the first portion 2.

The third and the fourth through holes 6, 7 can provide a minimal gap between the abutment surfaces of the second portion 5 and the first and second pins 8, 9.

FIG. 14 is a simplified cross-sectional view of a sensor assembly configured to detect a vertical load component Fz, a transversal load component Fy, and a longitudinal load component Fx of a load F.

The first pin 8 comprises a first magneto-elastically active region 21 and a second magneto-elastically active region 22, which are directly or indirectly attached to or form parts of the first pin 8 in such a manner that mechanic stress that is applied to the first pin 8 is transmitted to the magneto-elastically active regions 21, 22.

Each magneto-elastically active region 21, 22 comprises a magnetically polarized region.

The magnetic polarization of the first magneto-elastically active region 21 and the magnetic polarization of the second magneto-elastically active region 22 can be substantially opposite to each other.

The magnetic field sensor means comprises at least one first and third direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx11, Lz11 being arranged approximate the first magneto-elastically active region for outputting a first signal and a third signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux emanating from the first magnetically polarized region 21.

The magnetic sensor means further comprises at least one second and fourth direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx21, Lz21 being arranged approximate the second magneto-elastically active region 22 for outputting a second signal and a fourth signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux emanating from the second magnetically polarized region 22.

The first pin 8 comprises a first and a third Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz11, Lz12 configured to detect a vertical force component Fz11 in the first magneto-elastically active region 21 in the vertical direction Z.

The first pin 8 further comprises a second and a fourth Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz21, Lz22 configured to detect a vertical force component Fz12 in the second magneto-elastically active region in the vertical direction Z.

The first pin 8 comprises a first and a third X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx11, L12 configured to detect a longitudinal force component Fx2 in the first magneto-elastically active region 21 in the longitudinal direction X.

The first pin 8 further comprises a second and a fourth X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx21, Lx22 configured to detect a longitudinal force component Fx1 in the second magneto-elastically active region in the longitudinal direction X.

The second pin 9 comprises a first and a third Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz11, Lz12 configured to detect a vertical force component Fz21 in the first magneto-elastically active region 21 in the vertical direction Z.

The second pin 9 further comprises a second and a fourth Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz21, Lz22 configured to detect a vertical force component Fz22 in the second magneto-elastically active region 22 in the vertical direction Z.

The second pin 9 comprises a first and a third X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx11, L12 configured to detect a longitudinal force component Fx10 in the first magneto-elastically active region 21 in the longitudinal direction X.

The second pin 9 further comprises a second and a fourth X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx21, Lx22 configured to detect a longitudinal force component Fx20 in the second magneto-elastically active region 22 in the longitudinal direction X.

Therefore, the configuration of the second pin 9 is substantially similar to the configuration of the first pin 8.

Differently stated, the first pin 8 comprises at least one first X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx11, at least one the second X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx21, at least one first Z-direction magnetic field sensor Lz11, and at least one second Z-direction magnetic field sensor Lz21. The second pin comprises at least one first X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx11, at least one second X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx21, at least one first Z-direction magnetic field sensor Lz11, and at least one second Z-direction magnetic field sensor Lz21.

However, the first and the second longitudinal force components Fx10, Fx20 are comparatively small (for example, resulting from friction between the abutment surface of the fourth through hole 7 and the second pin 9) or substantially zero. This is a direct result of the additional translational degree of freedom in the longitudinal direction X, which degree of freedom is provided by the fourth through hole 7 in the second portion 5.

The first and second pins 8, 9 are rigidly fixed within the first and second through holes 3, 4 of the first portion 2.

The third and the fourth through holes 6, 7 can provide a minimal gap between the abutment surfaces of the second portion 5 and the first and second pins 8, 9.

FIG. 15 is a simplified cross-sectional view of a sensor assembly configured to detect a vertical load component Fz, a transversal load component Fy, and a longitudinal load component Fx of a load F.

The first pin 8 comprises a first magneto-elastically active region 21 and a second magneto-elastically active region 22, which are directly or indirectly attached to or form parts of the first pin 8 in such a manner that mechanic stress that is applied to the first pin 8 is transmitted to the magneto-elastically active regions 21, 22.

Each magneto-elastically active region 21, 22 comprises a magnetically polarized region.

The magnetic polarization of the first magneto-elastically active region 21 and the magnetic polarization of the second magneto-elastically active region 22 can be substantially opposite to each other.

The magnetic field sensor means comprises at least one first and third direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx11, Lz11 being arranged approximate the first magneto-elastically active region for outputting a first signal and a third signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux emanating from the first magnetically polarized region 21.

The magnetic sensor means further comprises at least one second and fourth direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx21, Lz21 being arranged approximate the second magneto-elastically active region 22 for outputting a second signal and a fourth signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux emanating from the second magnetically polarized region 22.

The first pin 8 comprises a first and a third Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz11, Lz12 configured to detect a vertical force component Fz11 in the first magneto-elastically active region 21 in the vertical direction Z.

The first pin 8 further comprises a second and a fourth Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz21, Lz22 configured to detect a vertical force component Fz12 in the second magneto-elastically active region in the vertical direction Z.

The first pin 8 comprises a first and a third X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx11, L12 configured to detect a longitudinal force component Fx2 in the first magneto-elastically active region 21 in the longitudinal direction X.

The first pin 8 further comprises a second and a fourth X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx21, Lx22 configured to detect a longitudinal force component Fx1 in the second magneto-elastically active region in the longitudinal direction X.

The second pin 9 comprises a first and a third Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz11, Lz12 configured to detect a vertical force component Fz21 in the first magneto-elastically active region 21 in the vertical direction Z.

The second pin 9 further comprises a second and a fourth Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz21, Lz22 configured to detect a vertical force component Fz22 in the second magneto-elastically active region 22 in the vertical direction Z.

The second pin 9 comprises a first and a third X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx11, L12 configured to detect a longitudinal force component Fx22 in the first magneto-elastically active region 21 in the longitudinal direction X.

The second pin 9 further comprises a second and a fourth X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx21, Lx22 configured to detect a longitudinal force component Fx21 in the second magneto-elastically active region 22 in the longitudinal direction X.

Therefore, the general configuration of the first pin 8 is substantially similar to the configuration of the first pin depicted in FIG. 14.

The general configuration of the second pin 9 is substantially similar to the configuration of the first pin 8.

The first and second pins 8, 9 are rigidly fixed within the first and second through holes 3, 4 of the first portion 2.

The third and the fourth through holes 6, 7 can provide a minimal gap between the abutment surfaces of the second portion 5 and the first and second pins 8, 9. Optionally, the fourth through hole 7 can provide no minimal gap, such that the second pin 9 is rigidly fixed within the third and the fourth through hole 7.

FIG. 16 is a simplified cross-sectional view of a sensor assembly configured to detect the first load case, the second load case, and the third load case.

The first pin 8 comprises a first magneto-elastically active region 21 and a second magneto-elastically active region 22, which are directly or indirectly attached to or form parts of the first pin 8 in such a manner that mechanic stress that is applied to the first pin 8 is transmitted to the magneto-elastically active regions 21, 22.

Each magneto-elastically active region 21, 22 comprises a magnetically polarized region.

The magnetic polarization of the first magneto-elastically active region 21 and the magnetic polarization of the second magneto-elastically active region 22 can be substantially opposite to each other.

The magnetic field sensor means comprises at least one first direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz11 being arranged approximate the first magneto-elastically active region for outputting a first signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux emanating from the first magnetically polarized region 21.

The magnetic sensor means further comprises at least one second direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz21 being arranged approximate the second magneto-elastically active region 22 for outputting a second signal and a fourth signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux emanating from the second magnetically polarized region 22.

The first pin 8 comprises a first and a third Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz11, Lz12 configured to detect a vertical force component Fz11 in the first magneto-elastically active region 21 of the first pin 8 in the vertical direction Z.

The first pin 8 further comprises a second and a fourth Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz21, Lz22 configured to detect a vertical force component Fz12 in the second magneto-elastically active region of the first pin 8 in the vertical direction Z.

The first pin 8 comprises no X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensors.

Therefore, the general configuration of the first pin 8 is substantially similar to the general configuration of the first pin 8 depicted in FIG. 12.

The second pin 9 comprises a first and a third Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz11, Lz12 configured to detect a vertical force component Fz21 in the first magneto-elastically active region 21 in the vertical direction Z.

The second pin 9 further comprises a second and a fourth Z-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lz21, Lz22 configured to detect a vertical force component Fz22 in the second magneto-elastically active region 22 in the vertical direction Z.

The second pin 9 comprises a first and a third X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx11, L12 configured to detect a longitudinal force component Fx22 in the first magneto-elastically active region 21 in the longitudinal direction X.

The second pin 9 further comprises a second and a fourth X-direction sensitive magnetic field sensor Lx21, Lx22 configured to detect a longitudinal force component Fx21 in the second magneto-elastically active region 22 in the longitudinal direction X.

Therefore, the second pin 9 generally comprises a configuration that is substantially similar to the general configuration of the second pin 9 depicted in FIG. 15.

The first and second pins 8, 9 are rigidly fixed within the first and second through holes 3, 4 of the first portion 2.

The third and the fourth through hole 6, 7 can provide a minimal gap between the abutment surfaces of the second portion 5 and the first and second pins 8, 9. Optionally, the fourth through hole 7 can provide no minimal gap, such that the second pin 9 is rigidly fixed within the third and the fourth through hole 7.

FIG. 17 is a simplified perspective view of a tow coupling comprising a sensor assembly for sensing (components) of a force F. The sensor assembly 1 for sensing a force F comprises a first portion 2 (attachment assembly, supporting yoke) having a first and a second through hole 3, 4.

The sensor assembly 1 further comprises a second portion 5 (trailer hitch, towing hook) having a third and fourth through hole 6, 7. The third and fourth through holes 6, 7 are positioned in correspondence to the first and second through holes 3, 4.

The sensor assembly 1 further comprises a first pin 8 and a second pin 9. The first pin 8 is arranged such that it extends through the first and third through holes 3, 6. The second pin 9 is arranged such that it extends through the second and fourth through holes 4, 7.

The first portion 2 is coupled to the second portion 5 via the first and second pins 8, 9.

At least one out of the first and the second pin 8, 9 comprises at least one magneto-elastically active region 10 that is directly or indirectly attached to or forms a part of the pin 8, 9 in such a manner that mechanic stress on the pin is transmitted to the magneto-elastically active region.

The magneto-elastically active region 10 comprises at least one magnetically polarized region such that a polarization of the polarized region becomes increasingly helically shaped as the applied stress increases.

The at least one pin 8, 9 further comprises a magnetic field sensor means arranged approximate the at least one magneto-elastically active region 10 for outputting a signal corresponding to a stress-induced magnetic flux emanating from the magnetically polarized region.

The magnetic field sensor means comprise at least one direction sensitive magnetic field sensor L, which is configured for determination of a shear force in at least one direction.

The at least one direction sensitive magnetic field sensor L is arranged to have a predetermined and fixed spatial coordination with the pin 8, 9.

The pin 8, 9 comprising the at least one direction sensitive magnetic field sensor L is at least partially hollow.

The at least one direction sensitive magnetic field sensor L is arranged inside the interior of the pin 8, 9.

The first and second pins 8, 9 are substantially arranged along the vertical direction Z. The pins 8, 9 extend in the transversal direction Y. The longitudinal direction is perpendicular to the vertical direction Z and the transversal direction Y to define the Cartesian coordinate system. The system of equations that has to be solved in order to determine the respective load components, has to be altered accordingly.

Further features and aspects of the invention (which have been described with respect to the preceding embodiments) may also apply to this embodiment.

The sensor assembly 1 is part of a tow coupling 100. The first part 2 is configured to be attached to the chassis of an automobile. The second part 5 provides a ball head 104 that is configured to couple to a trailer.

The direction sensitive sensors L may be vector sensors. In particular, Hall-effect, magneto-resistance, magneto-transistor, magneto-diode, MAGFET field sensor or fluxgate magneto-meter sensors can be applied. This advantageously applies to all embodiments of the invention.

The sensor assembly for force sensing according to aspects of the invention is advantageously applicable for load detection tow couplings, for load detection in farming equipment, and/or for load detection in construction equipment.

Although certain presently preferred embodiments of the disclosed invention have been specifically described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains that variations and modifications of the various embodiments shown and described herein may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the invention be limited only to the extent required by the appended claims and the applicable rules of law. 

I claim:
 1. A trailer hitch assembly comprising: two magnetoelastic pins adapted to producing respective stress-induced magnetic fields; a plurality of sensors configured to output electrical signals indicative of changes in the respective magnetic fields; a receiving tube having a portion with at least two spaced apart through holes configured for the two magnetoelastic pins to extend therethrough; a connecting device for fixedly attaching respective opposite ends of the two magnetoelastic pins; and a control unit remote from the two magnetoelastic pins configured to receive the electrical signals and determine a magnitude and direction of a force transmitted through the receiving tube to the two magnetoelastic pins.
 2. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 1, wherein the changes in the respective magnetic fields change based on the magnitude and direction of the force, and wherein the plurality of sensors are configured to detect the respective changes in the magnetic fields corresponding to the amount of stress induced in the two magnetoelastic pins caused by the force.
 3. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 1, wherein one or both of the changes in the respective magnetic fields of the two magnetoelastic pins change based on a vertical force, a lateral force, a longitudinal force, and a rotational force acting on the receiving tube, and wherein the vertical force, lateral force, and the longitudinal force are perpendicular to each other.
 4. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 1, wherein the control unit is further configured to determine that a first pin of the two magnetoelastic pins has a stress-induced change in a first direction, determine that a second pin of the two magnetoelastic pins has a stress-induced change in a second direction opposite the first direction, and responsively determine that a vertical force is acting on the receiving tube.
 5. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 1, wherein the receiving tube comprises an opening configured to engage a trailer hitch arm along a first axis, and wherein the respective axes of the two magnetoelastic pins are oriented perpendicular to and centered on the first axis.
 6. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 1, wherein the respective opposite ends of the one of the two magnetoelastic pins are rigidly fixed in respective through holes and wherein the respective opposite ends of the other one of the two magnetoelastic pins are rigidly fixed in respective through holes a first direction but are free to slide in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.
 7. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 6, wherein one of the through holes is oblong and wherein the other one of the two magnetoelastic pins is configured to slide within the oblong through hole in response to a longitudinal force, and wherein the control unit is further configured to: determine that the one of the two magnetoelastic pins has a stress-induced change in a first direction by a first amount; determine that the other one of the two magnetoelastic pins has a stress-induced change in the first direction by a second amount; responsively determine that the longitudinal force is acting on the receiving tube; and determine a magnitude of the longitudinal force based on a difference between the first amount and the second amount.
 8. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of sensors comprises two or more sensors corresponding to each of the first and second magnetoelastic pins.
 9. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 8, wherein the control unit is further configured to: determine, based on the two or more sensors corresponding to the first magnetoelastic pin, that a first end of the first magnetoelastic pin has a stress-induced change in a first direction, and a second end of the first magnetoelastic pin has a stress-induced change in a second direction opposite the first direction; and responsively determine that a lateral force is acting on the receiving tube.
 10. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 8, wherein the control unit is further configured to: determine, based on the two or more sensors corresponding to the first magnetoelastic pin, that a first end of the first magnetoelastic pin has a stress-induced change in a first direction, and a second end of the first magnetoelastic pin has a stress-induced change in a second direction opposite the first direction; determine, based on the two or more sensors corresponding to the second magnetoelastic pin, that a first end of the second magnetoelastic pin has a stress-induced change in the first direction, and a second end of the second magnetoelastic pin has a stress-induced change in the second direction opposite the first direction; and responsively determine that a rotational force is acting on the receiving tube.
 11. A trailer hitch assembly comprising: a trailer hitch component for attaching to a chassis of a vehicle; two magnetoelastic pins configured to couple the trailer hitch component to the chassis, wherein the two magnetoelastic pins are spaced apart by a distance d2 with their respective longitudinal axes substantially parallel to each other, wherein the respective opposite ends of at least one of the two magnetoelastic pins are rigidly fixed, and wherein each of the two magnetoelastic pins are adapted to producing respective magnetic fields when a force applied at a coupling ball located a distance d3 from one of the two magnetoelastic pins and a distance d1 from the other one of the two magnetoelastic pins is transferred to them through the hitch component, and wherein d1=d2+d3, a plurality of sensors configured to output electrical signals indicative of changes in the respective magnetic fields; and a control unit remote from the two magnetoelastic pins configured to receive the electrical signals and determine a magnitude and direction of the applied force.
 12. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 11, wherein the changes in the respective magnetic fields change based on the magnitude and direction of the applied force, and wherein the plurality of sensors are configured to detect the respective changes in the magnetic fields corresponding to the amount of stress induced in the two magnetoelastic pins.
 13. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 11, wherein one or both of the changes in the respective magnetic fields of the two magnetoelastic pins change based on a vertical force, a lateral force, a longitudinal force, and a rotational force acting on the trailer hitch component, and wherein the vertical force, lateral force, and the longitudinal force are perpendicular to each other.
 14. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 11, wherein the control unit is further configured to determine that a first pin of the two magnetoelastic pins has a stress-induced change in a first direction by first amount Fz1, determine that a second pin of the two magnetoelastic pins has a stress-induced change in a second direction opposite the first direction by a second amount Fz2, and responsively determine that a vertical force Fz=Fz1+Fz2 is acting on the coupling ball.
 15. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 11, wherein the trailer hitch component comprises an opening configured to engage a trailer hitch arm along a first axis, and wherein the respective axes of the two magnetoelastic pins are oriented perpendicular to and centered on the first axis.
 16. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 11, wherein the respective opposite ends of the one of the two magnetoelastic pins are rigidly fixed and wherein the respective opposite ends of the other one of the two magnetoelastic pins are rigidly fixed in a first direction but are free to slide in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.
 17. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 16, wherein the other one of the two magnetoelastic is configured to slide within an oblong coupling in response to a longitudinal force, and wherein the control unit is further configured to: determine that the one of the two magnetoelastic pins has a stress-induced change in a first direction by a first amount F1; determine that the other one of the two magnetoelastic pins has a stress-induced change in the first direction by a second amount F2; responsively determine that the longitudinal force Fx is acting on the coupling ball; and determine a magnitude of the longitudinal force based on a sum of the first amount=F1 and the second amount F2.
 18. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 11, wherein the plurality of sensors comprises two or more sensors corresponding to each of the first and second magnetoelastic pins.
 19. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 18, wherein the control unit is further configured to: determine, based on the two or more sensors corresponding to the first magnetoelastic pin, that a first end of the first magnetoelastic pin has a stress-induced change Fx1 in a first direction, and a second end of the first magnetoelastic pin has a stress-induced change Fx2 in a second direction opposite the first direction; and responsively determine that a lateral force Fy is acting on the trailer hitch component.
 20. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 18, wherein the control unit is further configured to: determine, based on the two or more sensors corresponding to the first magnetoelastic pin, that a first end of the first magnetoelastic pin has a stress-induced change in a first direction, and a second end of the first magnetoelastic pin has a stress-induced change in a second direction opposite the first direction; determine, based on the two or more sensors corresponding to the second magnetoelastic pin, that a first end of the second magnetoelastic pin has a stress-induced change in the first direction, and a second end of the second magnetoelastic pin has a stress-induced change in the second direction opposite the first direction; and responsively determine that a rotational force is acting on the trailer hitch component.
 21. A trailer hitch assembly comprising: two magnetoelastic pins adapted to producing respective stress-induced magnetic fields, wherein a first one of the two magnetoelastic pins is substantially arranged above the other magnetoelastic pin along a vertical direction with their respective longitudinal axes extending in a transversal direction to the vertical and substantially parallel to each other; a plurality of sensors configured to output electrical signals indicative of changes in the respective magnetic fields; a connecting device configured to being attached to and extending from the chassis of a vehicle for fixedly attaching respective opposite ends of the two magnetoelastic pins; and a trailer hitch configured to couple with the connecting device and with a trailer, the trailer hitch having a portion with at least two spaced apart through holes configured for the two magnetoelastic pins to extend therethrough.
 22. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 21, wherein the two magnetoelastic pins are arranged inside the two magnetoelastic pins.
 23. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 21, further comprising a control unit remote from the two magnetoelastic pins configured to receive the electrical signals and determine a magnitude and direction of a force transmitted from the trailer hitch to the two magnetoelastic pins.
 24. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 21, wherein the changes in the respective magnetic fields change based on the magnitude and direction of a force applied to the trailer hitch, and wherein the plurality of sensors are configured to detect the respective changes in the magnetic fields corresponding to the amount of stress induced in the two magnetoelastic pins caused by the force.
 25. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 21, wherein one or both of the changes in the respective magnetic fields of the two magnetoelastic pins change based on a vertical force, a lateral force, a longitudinal force, and a rotational force acting on the trailer hitch, and wherein the vertical force, lateral force, and the longitudinal force are perpendicular to each other.
 26. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 21, wherein the control unit is further configured to determine that the first pin of the two magnetoelastic pins has a stress-induced change in a first direction, determine that the other pin of the two magnetoelastic pins has a stress-induced change in a second direction opposite the first direction, and responsively determine that a vertical force is acting on the trailer hitch.
 27. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 21, wherein the connecting device comprises an opening configured to engage an end of the trailer hitch along a first axis, and wherein the respective axes of the two magnetoelastic pins are oriented perpendicular to and centered on the first axis.
 28. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 21, wherein the respective opposite ends of the first one of the two magnetoelastic pins are rigidly fixed in respective through holes and wherein the respective opposite ends of the other one of the two magnetoelastic pins are rigidly fixed in respective through holes in a first direction but are free to slide in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction such that it is insensitive with respect to shear forces acting in the second direction.
 29. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 28, wherein one of the through holes is oblong and wherein the other one of the two magnetoelastic pins is configured to slide within the oblong through hole in response to a vertical force, and wherein the control unit is further configured to: determine that the one of the two magnetoelastic pins has a stress-induced change in a first direction by a first amount; determine that the other one of the two magnetoelastic pins has a stress-induced change in the first direction by a second amount; responsively determine that the vertical force is acting on the trailer hitch; and determine a magnitude of the vertical force based on a sum of the first amount and the second amount.
 30. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 21, wherein the plurality of sensors comprises two or more sensors corresponding to each of the first and second magnetoelastic pins.
 31. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 30, wherein the control unit is further configured to: determine, based on the two or more sensors corresponding to the first magnetoelastic pin, that a first end of the first magnetoelastic pin has a stress-induced change in a first direction, and a second end of the first magnetoelastic pin has a stress-induced change in a second direction opposite the first direction; and responsively determine that a lateral force is acting on the trailer hitch.
 32. The trailer hitch assembly of claim 30, wherein the control unit is further configured to: determine, based on the two or more sensors corresponding to the first magnetoelastic pin, that a first end of the first magnetoelastic pin has a stress-induced change in a first direction, and a second end of the first magnetoelastic pin has a stress-induced change in a second direction opposite the first direction; determine, based on the two or more sensors corresponding to the other one of the two magnetoelastic pin, that a first end of the second magnetoelastic pin has a stress-induced change in the first direction, and a second end of the second magnetoelastic pin has a stress-induced change in the second direction opposite the first direction; and responsively determine that a rotational force is acting on the trailer hitch. 